Clean Buildings Audit Incentive Program Request for Applications

The Washington State Department of Commerce is issuing a Request for Applications (RFA) to solicit proposals from qualified entities interested in grant funding for Energy Audits for Publicly Owned Buildings. The objective is to provide funding to cover part or all of the cost of conducting an ASHRAE Level II energy audit in accordance with the Washington State Clean Buildings Performance Standard. The program is open to publicly owned facilities over 50,000 square feet located in Washington state, with a focus on serving buildings in overburdened communities. Applications will be accepted on a first-come, first-served basis from March 1, 2024 until April 30, 2025. The period of performance is tentatively scheduled to begin on April 17, 2024 and end on June 30, 2025, with the option for Commerce to extend the contract for two additional one-year periods. Applicants must be in good standing, licensed to do business in Washington, and hire a qualified energy consultant from Commerce's approved list or a qualified Energy Service Company (ESCO) partner.

This $20 million program is focused on serving publicly owned facilities in 39 counties and over 50 cities and census designated places across Washington state. There are no set-aside designations or restrictions on the types of organizations that can respond, and the RFA does not list any incumbent vendors or current contractors. The available funding will be calculated at a base rate of $0.50 per square foot of gross floor area, excluding parking, with additional funding for buildings over 220,000 square feet or in rural communities.